國清百錄 3.23

3.23

Zongchi pays homage. In the season of wheat, the weather is clear and your physical body in the Way is harmonious and comfortable, with your adornment of blessings and wisdom becoming ever more lofty and superior with the season. It has not been long since your disciple arrived, and things are roughly workable. Lately you have sent two letters in succession, deigning to reveal your merits. The Profound Meaning has been pruned and condensed, and the Textual Phrases has entered its beginning; the old is made new, moving from the coarse to the wondrous; only when unfolding and receiving them will the mists and clouds be cleared away. The spring season has already waned, and the summer retreat is just beginning; how would I dare violate the sūtras' teachings to venture out in the summer heat to welcome you? When the white dew gathers at night and autumn leaves fall in the wind, I will certainly prepare boats and oars to welcome and pay visit at Jiangyang. Yet respectfully burdening you with writing has already spanned several years; prajñā meets many obstacles, but I hope for success in the near future; as you progress day by day and month by month, I hope you will open and enlighten me; I hastily present this separate list to express my reverent sincerity. In my respect there is no eloquence, and I look up to your vast understanding; in the meantime, I shall continue to send messages regarding your precious virtues. Respectfully paying homage.